Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
Not published
Time to earn it
about 7 years
Issued by Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board and provincial colleges
Required to start: Practising chiropractic needs a licence from the provincial college.
About
Chiropractors assess and treat problems of the spine, joints and nervous system. In Canada, only people who hold a licence can use the title chiropractor and practise the profession.
Licences are issued by provincial and territorial colleges, which protect the public by setting standards. To qualify, you must pass the national exams run by the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board. You then apply to the college in the province or territory where you want to work.
How to get it
Complete pre-chiropractic studies
Finish the university-level courses required to enter a chiropractic program. Many students complete a full undergraduate degree first, though requirements vary by school.
Graduate from an approved chiropractic program
Earn a doctor of chiropractic degree from a program accepted by the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board. This is a long, full-time program that includes hands-on clinical training.
Pass the national examinations
Register with the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board and sit its exams. They test both your knowledge and your clinical skills.
Apply to a provincial or territorial college
Submit your application, proof of education, exam results and any other documents the college asks for. Expect a background check and proof of good character.
Receive your licence and begin practising
Once the college approves you, you can practise in that province or territory. You will also need professional liability insurance.
The exam
The Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board sets the national exams. They include written exams on clinical knowledge and a hands-on clinical skills exam. You must pass all parts before a provincial college will license you. Plan to study carefully, as these exams cover a wide range of topics.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Each province and territory has its own college and its own rules. Application steps, fees, continuing education requirements and renewal timing can differ from place to place. The national exams are shared, but you must hold a licence in the specific province or territory where you plan to work. If you move, you will need to apply to the new college.
Careers that mention it
No Canadian career on the site names this yet.
Keeping it
Your licence must be renewed on a regular schedule set by your provincial college. Renewal usually means paying a fee, confirming you carry liability insurance and showing that you completed continuing education. Colleges may also ask you to declare any changes to your practice or conduct.